Your home may be the biggest investment you'll ever make. So if you're serious about protecting that investment, here is some important information to consider when determining the coverage amount for your home
By Pascack Press
Home Improvement Section
Wood framing is yesterday's building method. Today, concrete is sustainable and today concrete is king.
"In both residential and commercial buildings, structures built with concrete to the roof offer long lasting benefits to home owners and owners of commercial structures," says Todd Blyth at Nudura. "Once these comforts are experienced, the homeowners and commercial building owners would never go back to wood or other traditional building methods."
Nudura, a company known for an ingenious, interlocking concrete-form building system, has recently won four, prestigious ICF Builder Awards, most notably for a LEED rated project. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design administers a third-party certification program, which has now set an international benchmark for the construction and operation of sustainable, high performance buildings. Nudura builds the walls to the roof with a method that entails interlocking forms with two layers of polystyrene, steal reinforced, and filled with concrete. Here's why concrete so readily trumps wood:
Conservation: The more trees covering the planet the better for oxygen supply and green house gas reduction. Instead of using wood for construction, concrete will save this important natural resource.
Cost Cutting: The energy savings with concrete walls range from up to 50-70 percent. Solid core, concrete keeps home temperatures consistent requiring less energy for heat, cooling, and climate control. Wood structures are prone to thermal bridging where the outside cold penetrates too easily, causing drafts and cold spots.
Fire Resistant: In addition to long-term durability, and wind resistance, concrete walls report 4-hour fire protection.
Durability: Solid concrete core walls are shown to be up to nine times stronger, withstanding winds up to 400 km-/hr and a debris impact up to 185 km-hr. Wood walls are subject to moisture, dry rot, and deterioration.
Indoor Air Quality: Wood structures are also prone to moisture retention, promoting mold growth with airborne respiratory irritants. The newest concrete system (nudura.com) is quick to assemble for builders, brings beauty to the design, emits no fumes, retains no water, and is virtually sound proof.
By Richard Wall
HGTVPro.com
There many never be a better time to get into green building than right now, particularly as a way to hedge your business against the slowing housing market.
"There is no slow down from my company," says Matt Belcher or Belcher Homes in St. Louis. "Last year we did 15 green homes, and this year we'll do 25. I don't build anything but green homes."
Belcher says that a confluence of green products, how-to-build-green information, and customers easily sold on the concept have greatly reduced the obstacles builders use to face in getting started. By using the resources now readily available from national and local home builders associations and other organizations, any other builder can establish an individual plan to go green and execute it.
Emily English, director of the National Association of Home Builders' Green Building Program, says the NAHB's free Green Building Guidelines publication lays it all out in phased steps.
Step-By Step Breakdown
"There is a learning curve to switching to green practices," says Emily. "So we have different thresholds of building green, starting with bronze, then sliver and gold. The first part of the Guidelines is a checklist for what level of green you are building to. The second part of the Guidelines is how to do it, and a source of resources."
The process of going green is broken into seven guiding principles (Resource Efficiency, Lot Design, Preparation, and Development, etc.) which each specific element in a principle section given a numerical value. By adopting elements from each of the seven sections into your building program, you move into green building step by step.
"It's easier to go green this year than it was last year," says Belcher, who would chair the NAHB Green Building Conference March 25-27, 2007, in St. Louis. "There's so much more information out there. Our local HBA of Greater St. Louis and Eastern Missouri just adopted the NAHB's Guidelines. We tweak them for our area, but there isn't much tweaking needed
"On the product side, all the manufacturers of building components say the writing on the wall, Belcher adds. "Green products are about all they're pushing."
Sell the Green Bling
Belcher said the other two largest potential stumbling blocks to going green have been selling the green concept to dubious customers and turning concept into practice on the job site. Although these are the most crucial aspects of a builder needs to get right when switching over the green practices, Belcher doesn't view them as obstacles any longer.
"I sell the customers with what i call the 'green bling,' I tell them about things like photovolaics, structural insulated panels, and the fact that lenders are raising the value of green homes by as much as 18%," says Belcher. "And when I tell them we are going to build a 3,500 square-foot home and their electric bill won't be more than $125 a month, it gets them going pretty quick."
English and Belcher offer a couple of tips for builders to keep in mind as they go green:
"I can say that using the Green Building Guidelines has improved my bottom line dramatically. I am not wasting a thing," says Belcher. "After my first few green houses, I was thinking, 'Why haven't I been doing this all along?'"
By Pascack Press
Real Estate & Business Section
In today's housing market, homeowners need to be more proactive than ever before when it comes to selling their homes.
Whereas the real estate boom at the turn of the century made things easy on sellers, the current real estate climate is not so seller-friendly.
To make their homes more attractive to prospective buyers, these are small and easy projects, but if neglected they'll give buyers the impression that other, bigger things might have been neglected as well.
If your home has a front porch or stoop, be sure to inspect it for cracks. An older porch or stoop should be replaced, and any chips or cracks in the steps should be fixed.
Sellers should hire their own home inspector to determine the condition of the roof before putting the home up for sale. If you wait until after putting the home up for sale, it will likely take more time to sell the home, and buyers will wonder why the home was listed so long.
Know the home's ups and downs before putting it up for sale to minimize any potential concerns from buyers.
Homeowners preparing to sell their home in the fall should lavish attencion on their lawn throughout the summer, keeping it watered and possibly hiring a landscaping service to make it more appealing. Consider planting flowers or other decorative folliage.
Buying a home is the largest investment most Bergen County home buyers make. It is a HUGE decision and the cause of many sleepless nights. Most home buyers have LOTS of questions and aren't always comfortable contacting a Realtor for answers when in the beginning stages of deciding to buy a home. For this reason, I have a Library of Real Estate Tips for Bergen County home buyers. Here you can learn about anything from home inspections, to tax considerations, to buyers remorse, to agency disclosure. Of course you can always give me a call to get your questions answered, but my Library of Tips is available for your convenience.
Other handy tools and information available on my website are local Maps and Links, Community Info for Hillsdale, Old Tappan, and Rivervale, Things To Do, School info and more!
You can also get pre-qualified for a mortgage, get a FREE relocation package, and search all Bergen County homes for sale.
Please visit PaulaClarkRealtor.com oftern for all your Bergen County home buying information. And when you are ready, give me a call. I'm here to help!!
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Top Agent in the Northern, and Pascack Valley, and All of Bergen County. with a team of professionals that cover all of your Real Estate needs. Getting maximum exposure for your home is what you can
Welcome to Bergen County NJ Real Estate
I have been a licensed Realtor in Bergen County, New Jersey for 14 years. I have lived in Bergen County, New Jersey for over 24 years. During the mid 1990s I was Fort Lee's Commissioner of Housing for 5 years. Married for 25 years with two children ages 23, and 19. I volunteer for many committees in my community. Currently, I am Chairperson of Old Tappan's Oak Tree Property Committee as well as the Old Tappan's Environmental Commission.
I have represented Buyers and Sellers of Residential Real Estate all over Bergen County. Because of my vast experience all over Bergen County, I bring Buyers and Sellers together for that perfect match from every where. I am a "Relocation Specialist" and a designated "Previews Specialist".
I am a full time professional agent, with a great deal of energy, enthusiasm. I take pride in my profession. Assisting my clients so they get to the closing table with ease is my highest priority. I care about my clients, and do everything to make sure each transaction goes as smoothly as possible.
I have a unique marketing strategy unlike any other Realtor. I have a great team that assist me in making my profession one that will service ALL of my clients. Coldwell Banker is the Number 1 Company in All of Bergen County. Not only have we consistently held the Top Market share in my area... We are also on the cutting edge in Internet marketing.
The Rapid Response system allows us to contact prospective buyers immediately. 80% of Buyers are searching for homes via the Internet. The Paula Clark Team will make your move smooth, and stress free. We are with you from start to finish. I work hard at being "Your Realtor for life"
Making Bergen County NJ Home
Bergen County NJ is located in the north eastern tip of New Jersey and is considered within the New York Metro area, making a commute into the city hassle free. Bergen County communities offer a quiet, quality of life that can't be found in the city. They are close-knit, family-oriented oases, protecting you from the hustle and bustle of 21st Century living.
Edgewater is located on the Hudson River in Bergen County, NJ and within the New York metro area. The population is approximately 9,600. The name derives from its location on the river. This charming, historic borough, part of New Jersey's "Gold Coast", has witnessed an unprecedented period of rapid commercial and residential development in recent years.
Harrington Park, with a population of approximately 4,700 was named for the Harring family of settlers. Harrington Park was given the prestigious honor of ranking 7th out of 566 New Jersey municipalities based on economy, cost of living, education, crime, culture and leisure. People who move into Harrington Park usually stay for life!
Hillsdale is a historic town with ample picturesque charm. Home to about 10,500 residents, the town has a sensitively restored downtown of Victorian buildings, cobble sidewalks, gas-lamp style streetlamps, an expansive green, and a pretty Victorian gazebo. The slate blue train station was built in 1869 and is now on both the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places; commuters to Manhattan appreciate the fact that they can get to work in less than 40 minutes. A Victorian clock tower presides over all and numerous raised flower beds only add to the overall appeal. Hillsdale was the subject of a 2004' article in the The New York Times, titled A Haven For Commuters with Families and features an excellent school system.
Old Tappan is home to about 5,500 residents, Old Tappan is a friendly community on the shores of beautiful Lake Tappan in northeast New Jersey. Ample parks, steadily appreciating real estate and excellent schools make this human-scale community an ideal place to bring up a family. The Delaware Indian word "Tuphanne" is where the name Tappan is derived from. It means cold water. Why it was named Old Tappan, no one knows, but it is believed that it was to distinguish it from Tappan, New York, of which Old Tappan was formerly a part.
Known as the "Garden Spot" of the Pascack Valley, lush River Vale is famous for its beautiful plantings and abundant trees, bushes, and flowers. Home to about 10,000 residents, River Vale is a tranquil residential town of quiet winding streets, ample parks, and historic homes. "Downtown" is Rivervale Road, a friendly main street that runs north/south through the center of the community. the township of River Vale was featured by Money Magazine as number 29 on their list of the Top 100 Places To Live In America!
Norwood is about 2 miles from the New York state line. Norwood's 2007 population is 6,277 with there being 2,324 residents per square mile density. The average household size is 2.86 persons with 2,070 households. The name Norwood emanated from the old description "North-Woods". The Lenni Lenape Indians roamed the land as evidenced by an occasional arrowhead dug up in a local garden. Norwood is till proud of their "North-Woods: and in 2006 the Mayor and Council entered into a Deed of Conservation Easement with the Meadowlands Conservation Trust to preserve 100+ acres of property in perpetuity as open space.
Westwood is known as the 'Hub" of the Pascack Valley area in the center of Bergen County Westwood has a trendy downtown Business District with Stores that are sure to appeal to everyone. The Pascack Valley Train line also stops in Westwood and NJ Transit Buses are also plentiful. Westwood schools are rated among the best in the country.
Upper Montvale is a community of diversity and contrast with lovely suburban neighborhoods and attractive campus-like corporations resulting from prudent planning. Its geographic location makes Montvale an ideal place to live and work. Upper Montvale is renowned for one of the finest educational systems in Bergen County, which is strongly supported by our residents and local government.
Woodcliff Lake is one of the most scenic towns in all of the Pascack Valley, deriving its name from the incredible body of water that inhabits the town, the Woodcliff Lake Reservior. It is a beautifully scenic borough, with lush woodlands, streams, secluded properties, and the jewel of Woodcliff Lake Reservoir at its center. Pascack Hills High School is recognized as the Top 10 schools of New Jersey.
Emerson is a community that typifies tradition. It is located in the heart of the Pascack Valley, with a picturesque train station at its center. A fine educational system includes public and private schools. Primarily residential, the town offers a large shopping center as well as many local specialty stores. People travel from near and far to dine at the local historic hotel.
Park Ridge is in the beautiful Pascack Valley section of Bergen County. It is known for it's excellent schools and wonderful accessibility to New York City. In the early 1900's, it established its own Electric and Water Companies that still service its residents today. Park Ridge is home to a growing corporate population while it still maintains its small town flavor. The historic "Bears Nest" area is being developed with luxurious townhouses, a major hotel and well designed corporate campuses. Richard Nixon was once an owner of one of the original Bear's Nest townhomes.
Buying a home in Bergen County NJ? Search all homes for sale and sign up for an automated Email Home Search. Moving from out of town? You'll find relocation information here.
Selling a home? I offer a FREE no-obligation Market Analysis.
Get the latest Bergen County news. For the most up-to-date information about Bergen County NJ, be sure to read my Blog.
When buying or selling a home, call Paula Clark, your Bergen County NJ real estate Expert!
201-930-3070 ■ RealtorPaula777@aol.com ■ www.PaulaClarkRealtor.com
"You are head and shoulders above in your field. I never knew the professionalism of Coldwell Banker until I began to work with you and your team. You are not only savvy and knowledgeable, but you are also kind and genuine. This combination made buying a home stress-free and pleasurable. Since we met, I have appreciated how clearly you listened to what I wanted then made it happen. You have been an invaluable representative every step of the way. You are a consummate professional." - H.R. Partis, Woodcliff Lake, NJ
"I'm not sure if I ever conveyed the way I feel but having you represent us has made this entire process with real estate brokers before we started to really do anything about choosing a new home. There are many fine points of our relationship that I am pleased to be able to share with anyone I know who is looking to sell or a buy a home [none of which I heard in the many responses about other people's experiences with realtors-which were mostly negative comments]. In a nutshell, your right-on-target advice of how to prepare to sell our home; persistent research and lightning response in helping us find a new home and the infinitely man small details of this process that you have helped us understand and address make it clear that you combine expert knowledge and experience with a genuine caring for your clients is exceptional. I can't thanks you enough, and I can't imagine having traveled this road with anyone else. You are truly the Princess of Sales!"- P. Doll, Hillsdale, NJ
"While driving by a house we liked that was currently on the market we saw Paula Clark listed as the selling agent, and by chance decided to give her a call. My siblings and I needed to choose a realtor to work closely with our family and help my mother sell her house of 40 plus years, as well as find a new home to purchase. What started out as a call by chance ended up being the beginning of a wonderful personal and professional relationship with Paula Clark. Paula worked hard for us from the start by assessing my mother's house, handling all the aspects of home selling, and made herself available to fill any request no matter how large or small. She is a true real estate professional willing to go the extra mile to make her clients happy, and also a kind, caring person who realizes that selling a home or buying a new one is a big milestone for anyone. We have been lucky to have her as our realtor." Tracey, Old Tappan, NJ
Paula: Thank you very much for the high level of service you have provided for me on the sale of my condominium. You went above and beyond my expectations, and I greatly appreciate all that you have done for me. You're an exceptional Real Estate Agent and I wish nothing but the best for you. S. Sellas, Mahwah, NJ
"Working with you is always a pleasure. We know that you go the extra mile to make your clients know they are in good hands. You have a strong knowledge of real estate market and we really enjoy working with you!"- Starr, River Vale, NJ
Thank you so much for being my "Guardian Angel." What you do for me is over and above the "Line of Duty" and you have no idea how much I appreciate it." Berg, Edgewater, NJ
"Thank you very much for your professional service in the sale of our Saddle River home. Your efforts went above and beyond, especially since I live a long distance from New Jersey. You constantly kept your eye on the ball, and your hands-on approach took care of every detail, big and small, to bring the property to closing. Real estate sales are measured in results, and your personal touch made the process smooth and reliable." Mancuso, Waltham, MA
Hi Paula; It is very satisfying to me knowing how diligent you have been to sell each of the five properties on Motiva's behalf. Your efforts have resulted with four to of the five already sold with the fifth one scheduled Friday. Thank you for all of the hard work and diligent efforts to market and sell these properties. Steve Santoro, Motiva Enterprises
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